Hoyer Statement on Elections in Burma

WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the elections in Burma over the weekend:

“On Sunday, the Burmese people cast ballots in their first contested national election since 1990, with the potential to choose its first government largely reflecting the will of the people in half a century.  Because final results have not yet been determined, and because the military will automatically retain a quarter of parliamentary seats, I am cautious about prejudging the overall results, but I am encouraged that millions came out to exercise their right to vote.  I join in applauding the courage of the opposition parties and National League for Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi for their courage in presenting a vision for a free and democratic future for the country.

“The United States remains deeply invested in Burma’s transition to democracy, and I hope that the current government as well as the parliament chosen in Sunday’s election will continue that path to complete the democratic transition.  Burma’s current leadership has earned cooperation from the international community for its steps towards change, and a key test of that commitment going forward will be their willingness now to permit a peaceful transition of power to the newly elected government.  The international community must continue to support Burma's transition to democracy and remain vigilant against any steps by the current government to roll back its democratic reforms.”